Tucumcari Busker Seeks Peace of Mind Through Music

Guillermo 'Memo' Ramirez brings his guitar and ukulele to the streets of Tucumcari, livestreaming performances and working odd jobs to fund his dream of reviving the local music scene.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 12:00am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, out-of-focus photograph of a musician playing guitar on a street corner, with warm, hazy pools of light and color creating a dreamlike, atmospheric scene that captures the mood and emotion of the story.A Tucumcari busker finds solace and inspiration in sharing his music with passersby, as he works to revive the local live music scene.Tucumcari Today

Guillermo 'Memo' Ramirez has been busking along Route 66 in Tucumcari, New Mexico with his guitar or ukulele several days a week since returning to the town in January. He livestreams his performances on Facebook and works odd jobs, including at the Tucumcari Animal Hospital, to support his goal of bringing a live music venue back to the community.

Why it matters

Ramirez's story highlights the resilience and creativity of local artists who are finding ways to pursue their passions and contribute to their communities, even in the face of economic challenges. His commitment to reviving Tucumcari's music scene reflects a broader trend of small towns across America working to preserve their unique cultural identities.

The details

Ramirez, an alumnus of the now-defunct Rattler Marching Band, said he is using all donations from his busking to fund his project of bringing a live music venue back to Tucumcari. He sees his music as a way to find 'peace of mind' and 'make his own world' in the face of life's 'turmoils and tribulations'.

  • Ramirez began busking along Route 66 in Tucumcari in January 2026 after returning to the town.
  • He livestreams his performances on Facebook several days a week.

The players

Guillermo 'Memo' Ramirez

A Tucumcari resident who has been busking along Route 66 with his guitar and ukulele since January 2026, with the goal of reviving the local music scene.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I live in the possibilities of a future that could happen, and having fun making lemonade into lemons.”

— Guillermo 'Memo' Ramirez, Tucumcari Busker

“Love yourself. Treat others how you want to be treated. But some people treat themselves very horribly. Therefore, they treat other people horribly. Treat yourself in a positive way. People don't have to suffer.”

— Guillermo 'Memo' Ramirez, Tucumcari Busker

What’s next

Ramirez plans to continue busking along Route 66 and livestreaming his performances on Facebook as he works to raise funds and awareness for his goal of bringing a live music venue back to Tucumcari.

The takeaway

Ramirez's story is a testament to the power of music and community to provide solace and inspiration, even in the face of life's challenges. His dedication to reviving Tucumcari's music scene reflects a broader movement of small-town artists and entrepreneurs working to preserve local culture and identity.